Existing. [Which is... generally Van's fault, but details. He takes just a moment to decide what, or how much to reveal. To an observer he looks... perhaps a bit nostalgic. Certainly not like a calculating liar.

Calculating liars never do. After the moment is over he makes a small noise, the shadow of a laugh.] As children often seem to do. I'd expect myself to be more patient about it, after so many years teaching on the side. But when all you want is a sensible answer...